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A hole in the septum—the wall separating the two upper chambers (atria)—characterizes the congenital heart disorder known as atrial septal defect (ASD). This flaw lets oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium mix with oxygen-starved blood in the right atrium, therefore increasing blood flow to the lungs and taxing the heart.
While minor flaws may repair on their own during infancy, larger faults can cause problems including arrhythmias, cardiac failure, or pulmonary hypertension if left untreated. ASD ranges in size. The symptoms of ASD can include shortness of breath, fatigue, frequent respiratory infections, and, in severe cases, bluish skin (cyanosis). Some individuals may remain asymptomatic until they reach adulthood.
Usually, an echocardiography, electrocardiogram (ECG), or cardiac MRI makes the diagnosis. The degree of the defect will determine the treatment course. While bigger ASDs usually need closure by catheter-based operations or open-heart surgery, small ASDs may not call for intervention.
Timely therapy helps people with ASD lead normal lives. Monitoring heart performance and avoiding issues depends on regular follow-ups with a cardiologist, therefore guaranteeing a decent quality of life.